Replacing your roofing can be a costly undertaking. Among the factors that affect the cost of a reroofing project is the method used. There are two ways to replace your roofing: tear-off or overlay. Both options have their own merits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to weigh them before deciding. Here’s a closer look at these two methods and their advantages to help you get started.  

What Are the Tear-Off and Overlay Methods?

Tear-Off

As its name implies, tear-off is a reroofing method in which the existing roof is completely removed before installation. This means that all of the roofing material will be torn off to make way for a brand new system.

Tearing off your old roofing system offers plenty of benefits. By removing everything to replace it with a roof, you can examine the decking and look for signs of underlying damage like rotting and leaks. These problematic areas often remain unfixed until they cause severe and noticeable damage, but the tear-off method will reveal any existing issues right away. A full roofing replacement will include new flashings and support for areas at risk for leakages, which ensures that your home will be watertight for the long haul.

Overlay

Overlay reroofing involves putting on a new roof on top of the existing one. It’s an appealing option if your budget for roofing replacement is limited. It doesn’t require too much labor, and it can be finished more quickly than a tear-off project. When time is of the essence, the overlay method can be a good alternative.

Which Is Better in the Long Run?

While it’s true that the tear-off method will run you more than overlay, tear-off’s long-term benefits certainly outweigh the initial cost advantage of overlay reroofing. Although overlay is less expensive, it won’t last as long as tear-off. This method tends to trap more heat in the underlayment, shortening the lifespan of your new roof. Since you have to replace it sooner, you’re spending more with overlay in the long run. The overlay method also gives an uneven appearance because of the curled or lifted shingles underneath.

With tear-off, you won’t have to worry about adding extra weight to the roofing structure, which can be a big concern if you have an older home. It also eliminates any deep-rooted issues with your roofing system that could require serious repairs in the future, whereas the overlay method simply covers them up.

 

 

When you need help deciding between tear-off and overlay for roofing replacements, consult the experts at Price & Sons Roofing of Kernersville, NC. Serving clients throughout the Piedmont Triad region, they have provided quality roof installations and maintenance for over 30 years. Their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau® is proof they’re among the best roofing companies around. Call (336) 869-6921 or learn more about their services online.